Considine ready for Bells challenge

BARWON Heads surfer Ben Considine is fired up to make his third crack at the Bells Beach Longboard Classic his best yet.

Considine will surf against the world’s best longboarders at Bells Beach from September 17 to 21.

The 28-year-old earned a spot in the main draw of the international event by winning the Victorian Longboard Titles in May.

In his two appearances on the world stage at Bells Beach, Considine has had two 17th place finishes.

He is hopeful 2025 is the year he can break out of the elimination round and make some more heats.

“Hopefully I can! It’s always hard as a lower seed going up against the top guys. You’ve really got to try and breakthrough through that.

“I’m hoping a bit of local knowledge and the cold weather can play into my advantage.

“For me, it’s not about who I’m against or what I’ve done previously, it’s just about going out and having fun!”

He said key to his preparation has been getting into the waves at Bells Beach and testing out his equipment.

“I’ve been getting out there plenty and have been feeling really dialed in with things.

“I’ve had a really strong season so far with the Longboard Qualifying Series and the Victorian Longboard Titles. Everything feels like it’s just clicking.

“I’m just trying to surf like I’m free surfing and am always trying to have fun. That’s the strategy I’m going into Bells with.”

Joining Considine in the lineup will be Point Lonsdale surfer Bea Conroy who will surf in the women’s division.

Conroy will be competing at Bells Beach for a second time and will be looking to avenge for a close loss to reigning world champion Rachel Tilley in last year’s elimination round.

For more information about the event and to follow the local surfers progress, head to worldsurfleague.com/events/2025/lt/348/bioglan-bells-beach-longboard-classic/main